Our Campus

Since the University opened the doors of the Quadrangle in 1845, the campus has been constantly evolving to accommodate ever-increasing numbers of students.‌ Today, the main campus has over 90 buildings on 105 hectares of land situated on the banks of the River Corrib.

Take a Virtual Tour

Explore a 3D model of the University, developed by campus-based simulation experts RealSim.

€400 million Capital Investment Programme

NUI Galway is in the middle of a €400 million construction programme - the largest expansion of facilities in any university in Ireland. Since 2010, the 'Campus of the Future' project has delivered iconic new research facilities such as:

  • Biosciences Research Building
  • Engineering Building
  • Hardiman Research Building
  • Lambe Institute for Translational Research and HRB Clinical Research Facility

We continue to expand our research and teaching facilities, with two new buildings in particular about to have a huge impact on the University's teaching capabilities:

  • Human Biology Building
  • Centre for Drama, Theatre and Performance

Campus Highlights

Hardiman Research Building

Constructed: 2013

The Hardiman Research Building is home to the Moore Institute and Whitaker Institute. Research space is devoted to postdoctoral students who are researching the arts, humanities and social sciences. Located at the heart of the campus beside the James Hardiman Library, it is clad in cream limestone that becomes brighter when wet.

Engineering Building

Constructed: 2011

In the years since the Engineering Building was opened, it has picked up numerous awards for its design and efficiency, including the Public Choice award at the RIAI Irish Architecture Awards 2012. Located on the banks of the River Corrib, the building is clearly visible from the Quincentennial Bridge, especially at night time when the interior is dramatically illuminated.

Áras Moyola

Constructed: 2010

Áras Moyola is home to the School of Nursing and Midwifery. Some of its stand-out features are its bronze exterior as well as its solid oak staircase.

Biosciences Research Building

The Biosciences Research Building is located on the north end of campus. It is home to research labs and facilities for bioscience research.

Lambe Institute for Translation Research & HRB Clinical Research Facility

This facility greatly enhances the University's teaching and research in the health sciences. Located on the grounds of University Hospital Galway, the facility enables our researchers to bring the latest clinical trials to Galway patients.

The Quadrangle

Quadrangle building

A favourite with tourists and wedding photographers, the Quadrangle is the University's most iconic building. Built in 1845, for decades it was the location of all teaching and research activities. Today, it houses mostly administrative staff, as well as the President's Office and a public venue in the Aula Maxima.

The Concourse

The Arts and Science concourse is one of the most vibrant parts of the campus, with thousands of students milling through its corridors each day. Constructed in the 1970s, the architecture is very much of its time. However, the sheltered concrete walkways make a welcome relief from Galway's often inclement weather.